Mental Health Conditions of Older Asian Americans in California

Mental Health Conditions of Older Asian Americans in California By Narine Avetisyan Objectives: The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between incidents of depression and mental health conditions among elderly Asian Americans in California. Method: A sample population of Asian Americans was extracted (n=39) from California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) 2011-12 data. Descriptive and parametric inferential statistics was used for data analysis. My study investigated the relationship between English proficiency, disability status, and work status, percent life in the United States and depression levels of Asian American adults. Results: The results of my study show that elderly Asian American women have higher levels of depression as compared to elderly Asian American men. Additionally, marital status was related to depression levels; married males and females had better mental health. This may due to the reason that married older Asian Americans have more support and understanding, and more socialization opportunities compared to non-married older Asian Americans. Depression levels in the older Asian Americans did not have a strong relationship with the times lived in the United States. Also, English proficiency, work status, disability status and percent life in the United States did not have significant influence on the mental health condition of older Asian Americans. Conclusion: This study contributes to the existing literature and provides important information about mental health conditions of older Asian Americans that may help social workers to better serve the needs of this aging population